What Is Cellulose Insulation and How Much Does It Cost?

By Elizabeth Michael

October 19, 2026

If you prefer an eco-friendly approach when winterizing your home, you may be a good candidate for cellulose insulation. Made from recyclable materials, cellulose insulation is a popular choice for homeowners because of its longevity and fire resistance.

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On average, professional cellulose insulation installation costs between $1.20 and $2 (CAD 1.71 and CAD 2.85) per square foot, or about $1,800 to $3,000 (CAD 2,567 to CAD 4,278) for a 1,500-square-foot attic.

What Is Cellulose Attic Insulation Made Of?

Cellulose insulation is an eco-friendly building material that's primarily manufactured from approximately 80% to 85% post-consumer recycled materials such as newspaper and cardboard. Approximately 15% of cellulose insulation material consists of fire- and pest-retardant minerals, including boric acid and aluminum sulfate.

Cellulose Insulation Vs. Fiberglass Insulation

When compared to loose-fill (blown-in) fiberglass insulation, cellulose insulation offers higher density and better performance against air movement. Since fiberglass insulation has a lower density than cellulose, it can allow airflow to easily pass through if gaps are present.

Cellulose Insulation Vs. Spray Foam Insulation

Spray foam insulation offers superior air sealing compared with both fiberglass and cellulose, but it costs more to install. If you opt for spray foam insulation, expect to pay around $1.50 to $4 (CAD 2.14 to CAD 5.70) per square foot.

Is Cellulose Insulation Safe (Fire Resistance, Chemical Treatment)?

Yes, modern cellulose insulation is fire-safe. The material is infused with mineral borates like boric acid that reduce fire risk and increase overall fire-resistance ratings. The chemical treatment also helps deter insects and other pests while providing natural resistance to mold and mildew.

What Is the R-Value of Cellulose Insulation, and How Does It Hold Up Over Time?

Cellulose insulation delivers an impressive R-value (thermal resistance) of R-3.2 to R-3.8 per inch, which outperforms loose-fill fiberglass. Cellulose naturally settles by about 15% shortly after installation as trapped air escapes and fibers lock together. To offset this, most manufacturers intentionally factor this expected settling into their bag coverage charts, which helps ensure contractors blow in extra depth during application. Once the initial settling concludes, the material stabilizes completely and maintains its reliable thermal performance and energy-saving R-value for decades without degrading.

How Is Cellulose Insulation Installed?

Cellulose insulation is installed using three primary techniques, depending on your specific location and project needs. Here's a breakdown of each technique.

Blown-In

For open attics, loose-fill cellulose insulation is blown in dry using a specialized pneumatic blowing machine to ensure even coverage.

Dense-Pack

Contractors use a dense-pack method when installing cellulose insulation in closed-wall cavities. This process forces the insulation material in the cavities under high pressure, which helps eliminate drafts.

Wet-Spray

These applications mix cellulose material with a fine mist of water or liquid binder. This process allows the insulation fibers to adhere cleanly and securely to walls before drywall applications.

Cellulose Insulation: DIY or Professional Install?

For smaller, do-it-yourself projects, loose-fill cellulose insulation is generally safe and easy to install. Keep in mind you'll need to rent an insulation blower and purchase several bags of loose-fill insulation. On average, blower rental costs can range from $50 to $210 (CAD 71 to CAD 299) per day. If you have an extensive insulation project that requires wet spraying or dense-packing (blowing insulation into closed cavities), you'll generally need to hire a professional contractor.

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How Much Does Cellulose Insulation Cost?

On average, professional cellulose insulation installation costs between $1.20 and $2 (CAD 1.71 and CAD 2.85) per square foot. For a 1,500-square-foot attic, installation costs are approximately $1,800 to $3,000 (CAD 2,567 to CAD 4,278). Factors like your total coverage area and local labor costs may affect final pricing.

How Does Its Cost Compare to Fiberglass and Spray Foam?

At around $0.40 to $0.70 (CAD 0.60 to CAD 1.00) per square foot, fiberglass is considered the most budget-friendly insulation. Spray foam is the most expensive of the three options at $1.50 to $4 (CAD 2.14 to CAD 5.70) per square foot, while cellulose falls in the middle at $1.20 to $2 (CAD 1.71 to CAD 2.85) per square foot.

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